Chapter 63 Having a Nightmare
Terrence caught the flicker of displeasure in her eyes and softened his voice, the edge melting away. "Your cycle should be in the next few days. It's not good for your body if we… push too far."
Warmth bloomed in Bianca's chest. The corners of her mouth lifted almost involuntarily as she reached up, her index finger tilting his chin toward her.
"But I feel awful, baby…"
His brows drew together. "What did you just call me?" His hand tightened, pulling her against him, the blanket between them suddenly feeling like an unwelcome wall.
Bianca's laugh was quick, almost wicked. She tugged the blanket away, pressing her body flush against his chest. Her fingertip traced the line of his jaw, sliding up to the heated shell of his ear. The earlier shyness was gone, replaced by an ease that made her bolder.
"I'll only say it once."
She leaned in, lips brushing his ear, her tongue flicking against the lobe. The small bell attached to her cat ears jingled with the movement, scattering his focus.
In a swift motion, Terrence rolled her beneath him. The bell chimed louder, maddening in its rhythm.
"I don't want to hurt you," he murmured.
Bianca's leg hooked around his waist. Her fingertips pressed against the center of his chest, teasing along the path of heat that had already been stoked. "Want to touch the ears?"
She shifted, tugging his robe open. Terrence's gaze flickered, pupils tightening as her touch slid lower. The air between them thickened, charged, and then she pulled him into a fevered embrace, claiming him with the kind of urgency that left no room for words.
After the heat between them finally ebbed, they fell asleep in each other's arms.
"Bianca, you're ridiculous. You really think Samuel would want you?"
"I can't stand the sight of her. She's nothing compared to you, Blair."
"Bianca… live well."
Blood flooded her dreamscape, thick and endless. Her body burned, cold sweat dripping down her spine.
"No!" The word tore from her throat as she jolted upright, gasping, fingers clutching the sheets. Fear clung to her face.
Beside her, Terrence stirred, no trace of irritation in his features. He reached for her, pulling her into the circle of his arms. "Bad dream?"
Her arms wrapped around his neck. "I dreamed… there was so much blood, and…"
She stopped. Those were memories from another life—things she had vowed to change. The tragedy of her past would not repeat.
"Terrence, I love you. I came here for you. In this life, I only want to stay by your side, to see you safe."
His hand paused in its soothing motion. A smile ghosted across his lips, warmth stirring in his chest, but shadowed by something darker. His eyes dimmed, his fingers trailing up her spine to rest at her neck.
"I'm not as good as you think."
His mouth tightened. A flicker of an image crossed his mind—one he could never quite let go of.
"You are," she said firmly. "I love you. I love who you are, no matter what you become. I'll always be with you."
She pressed herself against him, her soft lips finding his. A single tear slid down her cheek, the salt tang mingling between them, deepening the kiss until it felt like they might drown in it.
Terrence's mouth claimed hers with a rough urgency, stealing every breath. Their tongues tangled, refusing to part until a silver thread broke between them.
Her body went pliant, breath quickening. She had no idea how enticing she looked—like a ripe peach waiting to be bitten into.
His hand climbed higher, fingers sinking into the softness of her flesh. His thumb brushed over the sensitive peak, teasing slowly, his gaze locked on hers.
She trembled, a quiet sound escaping her lips, her eyes dark with need. His throat tightened, hunger clawing at him.
He bent, taking her into his mouth, his tongue circling, tasting every drop she gave. Her legs pressed together, hands covering her eyes, breath turning into broken cries.
Desire washed over her in waves. She arched toward him, offering more. His hand found her other breast, kneading, his mouth relentless until she was flushed and swelling under his touch.
"Terrence…" she pleaded, squirming. "No more."
He chuckled, fingers sliding lower. She was already warm and slick, and it took no effort to slip inside. His thumb stroked her again, coaxing more.
"Terrence… slower… please."
Her teeth caught her lip, legs tightening to halt his movement. She gulped air, trying to steady herself.
He shifted, his knee parting her legs. "Refusing me?"
"I'm not!" Tears shimmered at the corners of her eyes. "Slower… I'm begging you."
He didn't answer. His mouth traced down her body—breast, stomach, the curve of her hip—until he reached her. Heat spilled against her skin as she twisted, trying to pull away, but his hands held her fast.
The first touch of his tongue sent her mind spinning. Her body locked, a rush breaking through her, leaving her gasping as she spilled for him.
He licked his lips, droplets clinging to his face. Rising, he positioned himself and drove into her.
She clawed at his back, marking him, her cries breaking free. He didn't stop. The tight, wet heat around him was intoxicating.
He kissed the sweat from her temple, his movements slowing. His eyes stayed on her, memorizing every detail.
"Mr. Anderson, the land on the east side has been secured. The government's plan hasn't been released yet. Should we start preparations?" Barry's voice was steady, professional.
Terrence's pen stilled. "Barry, what kind of gifts do women usually like?"
Barry blinked, then set down the file. "Is Ms. Rodriguez's birthday coming up?"
"She hasn't been sleeping well. I want to give her something to help."
Barry nodded, a faint smile tugging at his lips. He'd never seen Terrence care for anyone like this. Before Bianca, he'd thought Terrence would be alone forever.
"Sleep issues can have many causes, Mr. Anderson. If you choose something thoughtful, Ms. Rodriguez will know how much you care."